![Here’s Where You Can Find Boater’s Safety Courses in Southwest Michigan](http://townsquare.media/site/689/files/2022/05/attachment-austin-neill-H5k2qVaQPoM-unsplash.jpg?w=980&q=75)
Here’s Where You Can Find Boater’s Safety Courses in Southwest Michigan
Just like our license plates say, Michigan truly is a "Water-Winter Wonderland"! Between the Great Lakes and thousands of inland lakes, our state is certainly a boater's paradise. However, with great power comes great responsibility. Here's what you need to know about boater's safety in Michigan.
Although it is not required that Michigan boaters posses a specific "boating license", a boating safety certificate is required for boaters born after June 30, 1996. In addition, those born after December 31, 1978 and are at least 16 years old must obtain a boating safety certificate to legally operate a personal water craft (PWC). With summer fast approaching, you may want to brush up on your safety knowledge!
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According to the Michigan DNR there are several ways boaters can obtain their safety certificate: online, in-class courses, or with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Says the DNR,
Although there are some people who do not need to obtain a boating safety certificate to legally operate a boat or personal watercraft, Michigan conservation officers and county sheriffs encourage everyone operating a boat in Michigan to enroll in a course.
The Allegan County Sheriff's Office says they will once again be offering boater's safety courses to the public throughout the summer, with some starting up as early as mid-May! According to their website, classes are open to anyone 12 years of age or older and are provided in 1 or 2 day sessions. Typically there is no fee for boater's safety courses, although some facilities charge a facility use fee or online fee. Several courses offered throughout west Michigan include:
- May 17th & 18th - Wayland Middle School, Wayland
- May 21st, June 4th - Coldwater Lake Association, Coldwater
- May 24th, June 2nd - St. Joseph River Yacht Club, St. Joseph
- June 18th - Sandy Pines Resort, Hopkins
- June 15th & 16th - Saugatuck Yacht Club, Saugatuck
- July 13th & 14th - Saugatuck Yacht Club, Saugatuck
View the complete list of Michigan boater's safety courses here.
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